GS Mains Model Question & Answer: What is internet terror? Suggest remedies for containing the online terror propaganda. Comment

Q.  What is internet terror? Suggest remedies for containing the online terror propaganda. Comment

Model Answer:

What is internet terror? Suggest remedies for containing the online terror propaganda.

Social media (SM) is being increasingly used as a tool of propaganda by the Islamic State (ISIS), with platforms such as Twitter and Facebook becoming critical outlets for dissemination of information. This throws up several challenges for India's internal security:

(A) SM can be used as a platform for indoctrination and radicalisation of impressionable Indian youth
(B) Instant upload of material can create fear psychosis which can perpetuate the feeling of distrust between the majority and minority communities.
(C) The sectarian divide which is being played up by SM, has the potential of becoming entrenched among Indian muslims also.
(D) Use of SM by ISIS can give a fillip to the jihadi forces in Kashmir and the NE militancy.

While, India has banned ISIS, it is simply not enough to meet the cyber challenged posed by it. Following are some suggestions in this regard:

(A) Government must launch a counter-information campaign to dissuade youth from joining ISIS.
(B) Stronger surveillance and monitoring of online media content on internet forums and blogs, besides undertaking extensive data mining exercises. National Cyber Cooperation Centre could be a major tool in developing this strategy.
(C) Closer engagement with the Muslim community both online and offline. The current policy of counselling arrested youth instead of sending them to jails sends a positive message to the community at large.
(D) Prop up more moderate voices and prevent the debate on Islam from being hijacked by ISIS and similar such extremist groups.
(E) Citizens on their part can help the government agencies with surveillance - reporting any suspected ISIS recruitment/indoctrination activity taking place offline/online.

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